RESPONSE TO DEFAMATORY ALLEGATION REGARDING PUBLIC FUNDS AND SENIOR OFFICIALS: (SECRETARY KONEY SAMUEL, SECRETARY SAMUEL PENIAS, AND SECRETARY GIBSON HOLEMBA)
MINISTRY OF WORKS & HIGHWAYS - OFFICE OF THE MINISTER
MEDIA RELEASE
Port Moresby, Wednesday, 21st May 2025
RESPONSE TO DEFAMATORY ALLEGATION REGARDING PUBLIC FUNDS AND SENIOR OFFICIALS:(SECRETARY KONEY SAMUEL, SECRETARY SAMUEL PENIAS, AND SECRETARY GIBSON HOLEMBA)
The Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) categorically refutes the malicious and misleading social media post circulating online alleging improper payments to Andro Holdings Limited and purported connections to Mr. Koney Samuel, Secretary for National Planning and Monitoring.
For the record, Andro Holdings Limited is not related or associated in any form to Secretary Koney Samuel. Company registration and ownership details available from the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) will confirm this beyond doubt.
The allegation suggesting a "Sepik Syndicate" involving Secretary Koney Samuel (DNPM), Secretary Samuel Penias (Finance), and Secretary Gibson Holemba (DoWH) is entirely false, defamatory, and deeply offensive. These three secretaries are highly competent, experienced, and respected public servants who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and performance in implementing key national reforms, including the Connect PNG infrastructure program and public financial management improvements. Under the Marape-Rosso Government, there have been considerable improvements in public finance management and expenditure controls.
To fabricate and promote unverified claims based on regional identities undermines national unity and is a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of senior public servants who have dedicated themselves to nation-building. These falsehoods reflect a sinister agenda and political interference designed to destabilize progress and public confidence.
The Department of Works and Highways will formally request law enforcement authorities, including the Cyber Crime Directorate, to investigate and identify the source of these defamatory and racially divisive posts.
Legal action may also be pursued against individuals or groups who continue to spread false, harmful, and defamatory information.
We urge the public and media to exercise responsibility, verify facts with appropriate authorities, and refrain from circulating unsubstantiated claims that damage reputations and distract from the important work being carried out for the development of Papua New Guinea.
Authorized by:
Hon. Solan Mirisim, MP
Minister for Works and Highways
